ABC NEWS ANCHOR ELIZABETH VARGAS ADMITS TO REHAB

The mystery behind 20/20 co-host’s recent absence from the anchor’s desk has been solved: ELIZABETH VARGAS confirmed today that she’s been been seeking treatment for alcohol abuse.

“Like so many people, I am dealing with addiction,” Vargas wrote today in a press statement from her yet-unnamed rehab clinic.

“I realized I was becoming increasingly dependent on alcohol. And feel fortunate to have recognized it for the problem it was becoming. I am in treatment and am so thankful for the love and support of my family, friends and colleagues at ABC News. Like so many others, I will deal with this challenge one day at a time. If coming forward today gives one other person the courage to seek help, I’m grateful.”

While Vargas has been missing from 20/20 for the past few weeks, sources told the NY Daily News that the network remains firmly behind her and that she will return to the air when she’s feeling better.

“We are proud of the steps Elizabeth has taken and are pulling for her recovery,” said an ABC spokesman

“We look forward to having her back home at ABC News, where she has done so much distinguished work over the years. Elizabeth is a member of our family, and we will support her in every way we can.”